'It would have been a different story' - Lesotho coach on key tactical tweak after Nigeria's second goal

Lesotho head coach Leslie Notsi has admitted that he was forced to make a key tactical adjustment after the Super Eagles doubled their lead in the second half of their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Polokwane, South Africa, on Friday evening.

After William Troost-Ekong opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 55th minute, substitute Akor Adams marked his senior debut with a superb strike to make it 2-0 in the 80th minute.

Desperate to spark a comeback, Notsi threw the kitchen sink at the Super Eagles, introducing two attack-minded players, a move that paid off when Hlompho Kalake pulled one back with seven minutes left on the clock.

The Crocodiles came close to levelling the score in stoppage time, but they failed to capitalise on a golden opportunity following a defensive mix-up between Stanley Nwabali and Semi Ajayi.

Notsi has expressed pride in his players' performance, admitting that an attacking switch helped them regain momentum against one of Africa's strongest teams, Nigeria. 

"Unfortunately, a penalty was given. I haven't seen how it came about, but the match official said it's a penalty," Notsi told reporters at the post-match press conference.

"The second goal came in and we thought we have nothing to lose. We had to change the plan and brought in two wingers and it went well for us.

"We scored the first goal, and we missed two goalscoring opportunities which I believe we would have been talking a different story now.

"But I am quite proud of the boys in the manner in which they engaged themselves. At the same time, giving credit and congratulating Nigeria on the win."

The win over Lesotho leaves Nigeria third in Group C of the World Cup qualifiers, knowing they must beat Benin by at least two goals in their final encounter and hope South Africa drop points against Rwanda on Tuesday.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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